Sometimes, the faucet in your bathroom, kitchen or bathtub may leak. You may notice a leaky faucet spraying water in an unintended direction, or it might become loud and squeaky. Most faucets last on average about 10 years. They don’t have to be replaced. Nonetheless, small problems such as this can be easily fixed by someone with little experience. It’s easy to repair a faucet. In fact, there are three common fixes that can be done in just a few hours.
A Clanking, Squeaking or Screeching Faucet
If you hear unusual sounds from your faucet, it is likely that one of these three things should be done: Replace the rubber washer, replace cracked hardware or repair the faucet’s threads. Each of these projects requires a complete disassembly and then a complete reassembly.
Dripping Faucet
The diverter is a small valve that is located inside the faucet stem. It is responsible for a dripping faucet or squirting one. With a screwdriver, you can remove the handle from the faucet and pull out the diverter.
Next, carefully remove the diverter from the container and let it soak in equal parts of white vinegar and boiling water. The diverter should now be clean and ready to reassemble.
A Faucet that Has an Inconsistent Flow
If you notice inconsistent water flow from your faucet, it is likely that the clogged aerator (the screw-on screen that covers the mouth of the tap) is the problem. The aerator should be removed and cleaned from any deposits and buildup.
You may need to replace the aerator if it is completely blocked or covered in crust. You can find a new one at your local hardware shop for a very affordable price.